Long-term Recovery Services

Page Contents:

Introduction: Who May Need Long-Term Services?

Long-term intensive recovery services are sometimes needed by students or staff

who have experienced the highest levels of trauma or violence

who may have long histories of personal trauma or traumatic deaths in the family

who may have existing emotional or physical conditions that make them vulnerable to chronic distress

whose lives have been so severely affected by the trauma that the path to recovery is very slow and difficult.

In many cases, people with the most severe reactions in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event require long-term or intensive services. In some cases, these individuals may be at risk for harming themselves or others.

For large-scale incidents of school related violence, such as the tragic shootings at Columbine High School in Colorado and Santana High School in California, students, staff, and family members continue to have strong reactions to anniversaries and other reminders multiple years after the event.

Types of Services

Long-term intensive recovery services are best provided off-campus by experienced clinicians and mental health workers. These services can range from long-term psychotherapy, to medication, to hospitalization. A seamless and effective transition from early or intermediate recovery services to long-term intensive services depends upon the development of linkages with local mental health providers.